Beschreibung:

STUART, JAMES EWELL BROWN ("Jeb"), General, C.S.A. Autograph letter signed ("J.E.B. Stuart") to "My Dear Cousin," Fort Riley, Kansas Territory, 23 February 1859. 4 full pages, 8vo, faint mark at folds, two neat repairs to folds, otherwise fine. "I AM TOLD...THAT I MAKE A GOOD SOLDIER" A revealing and ebullient pre-war letter, in which the future Confederate cavalry commander, writing from the troubled Kansas frontier, discusses politics and his army career. He begins by congratulating his cousin, a Virginian, on his recent marriage, and hopes he can secure leave: "It was approved by all the intermediate Commanders, except Col Sumner (our impracticable Veteran)." He continues: "I see in the States that you have withdrawn from the Senatorial Contest, and that Dr Crockett opposes Floyd. I take a good deal of interest in politics, and begin to think I missed my calling in inclination at least. I am told however by those who ought to know that I make a good soldier and therefore I ought to be satisfied. But if Congress goes to lopping off our pay I will be very strongly tempted to quit in disgust such a vacillating establishment. I do not think there is much chance for the bill...to pass this session at any rate." He concludes on a personal note: "I am longing to be once more among you in old Va. If I fail to get my leave it will be a sore disappointment." Stuart got the promised leave and returned to Virginia. In October, when John Brown's bloody Harper's Ferry raid took place, Stuart volunteered to serve as Robert E. Lee's A.D.C. Promoted to Captain, he offered his services to Virginia when his state seceded.